A step-by-step guide to using a compass tool watch.

A compass watch bezel is a rotating ring or scale surrounding the watch face, marked with cardinal directions (N, S, E, W). It is a valuable tool for approximate navigation in outdoor activities.

However, it needs to be more accurate and reliable than a dedicated compass or GPS device due to factors like magnetic interference and the absence of declination adjustments. So why a compass watch in the first place? For starters, the Wildsider is charged by light and lasts up to six months on a full charge, equalling approximately six hours of charging. You don't have to plug it in, and if your phone is dead and you don't have a compass in your pocket, you better wear a Venturian Wildsider.  

How it works in the Northern Hemisphere.

1. Find the sun and set your watch flat.

2. Point your hour hand at the sun.

3. Time to bisect. Before noon, rotate your watch clockwise and align the sun halfway between your hour hand and the 12 o'clock position. In the afternoon, turn your watch counterclockwise and align the sun halfway between your hour hand and the 12 o'clock position. Again, this is called a "bisection."

4. Turn the compass bezel "S" position to align with this bisection — it will also be pointing at the sun.

5. Look at the other side of the watch to find north. NOTE: This is roughly north. It is not true north simply because it is an approximation tool.

Follow these same steps in the southern hemisphere, but when you first bisect south, note that this will genuinely be "south." 

Believe me, this will take some practice. Most guides skip the before/after noon part online, but I triple-checked this on Hoodinkee and other sources to confirm how to use a compass tool watch.

Of course, Venturian stands for more than watches. We champion the pursuit of something greater, for life and mind adventure. Some know the direction their life is going. Some do not. It's our hope to inspire you to find your true north. Or encourage you to get on the right trail. After all, orienteering your life is complicated, complex, and full of a billion decisions. Stopping, thinking, studying, and reflecting on where you want to take your life should be your top priority. The sooner you do, the further down the path you will be. And farther in your mind. It's all about time. Time spent on the right stuff versus the bad stuff. The good beta. The right information. The right group of people to surround you by the fire. These are massively important decisions and will pay dividends as the years go by. Not knowing... well, that is simply a delay of time. We wish you well on your journey. Use your time wisely. For once, it's gone‚ it's gone.

A compass for your life. Here are some choices for you to consider:

1. Self-Reflection and Personal Values:

• Identify Your Core Values: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you. What principles and values do you hold dear? This could include family, creativity, independence, kindness, etc. Your direction in life should align with these values.
• Set Meaningful Goals: Once you clearly understand your values, set specific, achievable goals that align with them. These goals can serve as guideposts to help you navigate your path.
• Evaluate Your Interests and Passions: Think about what truly excites you. What activities or subjects make you feel alive and engaged? Pursuing your passions can lead you toward a more fulfilling direction.

1. Explore and Experiment:

• Try New Things: Be bold, step out of your comfort zone, and try new experiences. This could involve taking up a hobby, traveling to new places, or even trying different career paths.
• Learn from Failures and Setbacks: Understand that setbacks are a natural part of life. They can provide valuable lessons and steer you towards a more suitable direction. Embrace them as opportunities for growth.
• Network and Connect with Others: Engage with a diverse range of people. Conversations and relationships can provide fresh perspectives and introduce you to new opportunities you may not have considered otherwise.

1. Listen to Your Intuition and Gut Feeling:

• Trust Your Instincts: Pay attention to your inner voice. Often, your intuition can provide valuable insights about what feels right or wrong for you.
• Practice Mindfulness and Self-Awareness: Cultivate mindfulness through practices like meditation or journaling. This can help you become more attuned to your own desires and aspirations.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Finding your direction may not happen overnight. It's a journey that may involve twists and turns. Stay committed to the process, and trust you will eventually find your way.

Lastly, a few snapshots from our trip to Montana in early fall. We hiked up the Bridgers, Bear Claw Mountain, Smith Creek, the Gallatin and Yellowstone Rivers, and spent some time up at Hyalite Reservoir. Fishing at Lily Lake turned up this beautiful Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout. We took some time to soak up the local scene in Bozeman. Sideways Pizza is one of our favorites spots to dish for lunch or dinner.

The alluring and wildly protected Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout caught at Lily Lake.

Founder/Designer Jason Strong fly fishes the Gallatin River southwest of Bozeman...just north of Big Sky, Montana.

As always, thanks for spending time with Venturian. Until next time, keep exploring and pursuing what matters most to you.

Stay wild!

Jason